Today is the last day of January--and we are in the thick of winter weather here in zone 7 Maryland--days barely in the 30s and nights in the teens---bbbrrrhhh! Tomorrow is the first day of February which is a month of many notable dates not to mention the lengthening of days and the stirring of spring! This weekend is Imbolc on the Irish calendar and it is the celebration of midwinter.

Today, December 21, is the first day of winter; the shortest day of the year and the longest night. Although the Winter Solstice marks Midwinter, it is a day which I look forward to, since from now on the days become longer. From this day until the first of January is a time for reflection and repose, as well as celebration.

The calendar may read November, but there are still plenty of vegetable gardeners gearing up for planting. A new push for year-round gardening is helping to support gardeners who want to grow 365 days a year.

Christmas wouldn't be the same without the familiar spices that flavor our favorite cookies, breads, nuts and so much more. Here’s where these traditional spices originated and how to put them to use in a recipe for hot spiced wine.